How to Choose a Lactation Consultant

No mother and baby
pair are the same, just like no two caregivers are the same. So how to choose a
lactation consultant when you need a helping hand with your breastfeeding
issues?

Choosing an International
Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) to assist you with your
breastfeeding questions can reassure you that your caregiver has the right
qualifications.

What is an
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)?

An IBCLC is a health care
professional who specializes in the clinical management of breastfeeding.
IBCLCs are certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant
Examiners, Inc. under the direction of the US National Commission for
Certifying Agencies. IBCLCs work in a variety of health care settings including
hospitals, pediatric offices, public health clinics, and private practice. *

Knowing this should help
you understand that your caregiver has passed an exam, and must keep
up-to-date with the breastfeeding world.

IBCLCs have to re-certify
every 5 years by their examining body to keep their certification, and
knowledge current.

You can also find comfort
knowing, that IBCLCs must follow the Standards of Practice and Code of
Ethics guidelines that are dictated by their certifying board.